Little Explorers

Looking for your next family-friendly adventure? 

Whether your crew is chasing thrills, sweet treats, or screen-free engagement, there's something here to spark joy in every explorer. 


Bragging Rights

Let the games begin with some friendly competition at indoor action centers like Main Event in West Chester and The WEB Extreme Entertainment in Liberty Township, where laser tag battles, arcade games, and bowling lanes await. Keep the momentum going at In the Game Liberty Center (pictured), an arcade lover's dream with games, prizes, VR rides, and more. 

In the Game

Dive into more mind-blowing VR experiences at Zero Latency in West Chester or Sandbox VR in Liberty Township, where families can explore new worlds together. Older adventurers (12+) can hone their aim and arm at Class Axe Throwing in West Chester. 

Cool Collections

Unlock treasure troves of comics, collectibles, and classic toys throughout Butler County. Browse a massive selection at The Toy Department in Fairfield (pictured), specializing in vintage toys, action figures, and prototypes. Find more to explore at Oliver's Toy Chest in Hamilton, or for something hands-on, West Chester Toys focuses on STEM and imaginative play. 

The Toy Department, Fairfield Ohio

Comic book lovers and card collectors must visit Crooked Dog Comics in Middletown, which sells new and used comic books, graphic novels, and more. Enjoy retro arcade games at Pinball Garage in Hamilton, where kids and parents alike can face off on 40+ pinball games and share a pizza or cotton candy. Car enthusiasts will love the antique automobiles and firetrucks on display at Salty Dog Museum in Shandon — free to visit, donations always accepted. 

Summer Fun

For kids with energy to burn, splash-tastic fun awaits at Aqua Adventures Water Park in Madison Township (pictured). Kids and adults can zoom down water slides, take on the inflatable Adventure Zone, and play sand volleyball, while little ones can spend time in the new toddler splash zone. 

Have a fun day in the sun at the Fairfield Aquatic Center, where you can show off your skills on the in-pool climbing wall, or float the afternoon away in the lazy river at the Oxford Aquatic Center. End your day with a movie under the stars at the Holiday Auto Theatre in Hanover Township, a classic drive-in theater complete with a snack bar. 

Retro Treats

Start your journey on the popular Butler County Donut Trail, where you can donut-hop your way through local mom-and-pop donut shops, collecting stamps on the Donut Trail passport to earn a sweet t-shirt! 

For a fun taste of nostalgia, enjoy refreshing root beer floats and Americana fare from the comfort of your parked car at The Jug in Middletown (pictured), J&E Rootbeer in Madison Township, and Hamilton's iconic Jolly's Drive In

Group Play

Time to put your heads together! Work as a team to solve themed mysteries at Escape Goatz in Hamilton or Breakout Games in West Chester; perfect for curious minds and family bonding. Oxford's Puzzle & Putt combines indoor mini golf with puzzle play in a colorful, unique atmosphere. 

Take the putting outdoors at the Fairfield Fun Center (pictured) and Eagle Tee Golf Center in West Chester, both offering mini golf and a driving range suitable for all ages and skill levels. Challenge each other from the comfort of your own bay at Topgolf in West Chester, where golf gets a high-tech twist.  

Fun Finds Under $10

Full of fun without the splurge! Dance under the stars at Summer Concert Series across the county. Indulge in sweet treats at Grandpa Joe's Candy Shop in Middletown, and fill a box for $5 at the candy buffet. For less than $10, taste cloud nine at Sugary Clouds Cotton Candy at Liberty Center, or head to Nelson's Popcorn Land in Fairfield for 50+ flavors of popped perfection. 


 

Find this article + more in our 2026 Butler County Insider Guide

Things to do